We began our trip at around six-thirty on the morning of Wednesday as we departed Tenacious in our skiff. The ride to the beach was cold and slightly uncomfortable. Once we landed though, morale was raised as Duke took care of his business and we began the short trek to the River Trip place. We boarded a “Ponga” and we were off.

In the beginning of our trip we saw many birds. We also saw a bunch of trees and bushes that varied in height and width. Our ponga driver missed a few driving lessons in his day, but he was still kind and pointed out the birds and crocodiles that lurked on either side of our boat. Maureen, David, and Duke were in the front seat and constantly squeaked every time we saw the same birds over and over again.

An hour or so through our trip we landed at the “Crocodalio” or the Crocodile Farm. Our ponga driver gave us fifteen minutes to wander around and admire the different crocodiles locked up in their miniature and torture filled cages. Duke became wildly excited as he barked and attempted a sneak attack through the fence so he could play with the crocodiles. Luckily, Maureen kept a firm hand on his leash and led him away towards the half pig/half wild boar creatures that were further along the pathway. Justin and David wandered elsewhere while Maureen and Katherine watched the pig-like creatures as they all came to examine Duke through the fence. Towards the end of our allotted fifteen minutes, Justin and David wandered over to Katherine and Maureen and the boys brought along a little friend. The little friend was a tiny, incredibly friendly tortoise-shell kitten. As our family climbed back into our assigned seats in the ponga, the kitten sat upon the steps and watched us motor off.

Our trip continued on and we spotted a crocodile and more birds, which of course excited the adults again. About a half hour or so later, we landed at a small spring which is where most of the river trippers dive in and take a swim, but since it was still early in the day we were way to cold to try anything. Next to the spring, there is a small restaurant which was not open while we were there, but we sat at the tables and played a few rounds of cards while enjoying the warm sunshine on our backs. After around forty-five minutes of enjoying the small rest, we hopped back into our ponga and began the trip back.

Our trip back did not contain another crocodile encounter, but Katherine was lucky enough to see a turtle. And of course everyone saw the same batch of radical birds that had been spotted numerous times on the trip. The ride home was much quicker, for the guide was putting the pedal to the metal and our family was flying through the water. When we arrived back at the ponga docks, we hopped off and walked to the restaurant. David and Maureen had omlettes, while Justin had a hamburger and Katherine snacked upon French toast! All in all, the trip was enjoyed by all members of the crew and they recommend the trip to any others considering a visit to San Blas.

Huts in the river

Justin and Katherine enjoying their trip.

A birdy sunbathing Justin and Katherine's view through most of the trip.